Chess Club Makes Moves at Huntington High School

Now in its second year, the Huntington High School chess club is making moves, offering students a fun and challenging environment to engage with the timeless game.

Meetings are held every Friday afternoon at 2:30 p.m. in the school library. The club has become a popular spot for both beginners and more experienced players to gather. The atmosphere is welcoming, whether students want to compete head-to-head or just learn the fundamentals of chess.

“During the meetings, some players face off in friendly matches, honing their skills and enjoying the competition,” said James Graber, a high school social studies teacher who serves as the club’s faculty advisor. “Meanwhile, others are learning new strategies, improving their understanding of tactics or just getting familiar with the rules of the game. The club aims to cater to all levels, making it an inclusive space for everyone interested in chess.”

New members are always encouraged to join. “Whether you’re just starting out or already know your way around the board, the club welcomes you to participate,” Mr. Graber said.

Those interested in learning more about the club or even joining it, can reach out to Mr. Graber at the high school or via email at jgraber@hufsd.edu.

“Chess, as we know it today, was born out of the Indian game chaturanga before the 600s AD,” according to chess.com. “The game spread throughout Asia and Europe over the coming centuries and eventually evolved into what we know as chess around the 16th century. One of the first masters of the game was a Spanish priest named Ruy Lopez. Although he didn’t invent the opening named after him, he analyzed it in a book he published in 1561. Chess theory was so primitive back then that Lopez advocated the strategy of playing with the sun in your opponent’s eyes!”